Many older adults struggle with incontinence, but it’s not something families talk about often. It can feel awkward, emotional, and even overwhelming for both seniors and their loved ones.

Incontinence is more common than you might think. In fact, over 75% of women over age 65 experience some form of bladder control issues.

If you need incontinence care for the elderly in Cleveland, this article is for you. We’ll walk you through what incontinence is, how it affects daily life, and what you can do to manage it with care and dignity at home.

Causes and Effects of Incontinence in the Elderly

Incontinence means a person has trouble controlling their bladder or bowel. It can lead to leaks or accidents, which may happen during the day or night. This is common in older adults and can happen for many reasons.

Some common causes include weak pelvic muscles, nerve damage, arthritis, memory loss, and side effects from medication. Conditions like dementia, stroke, and diabetes can also make incontinence more likely.

Incontinence can affect more than just the body. It can make a senior feel embarrassed or ashamed. Many older adults begin to avoid outings, isolate themselves, or lose confidence. They may stop doing the things they once enjoyed.

For family members, it can be hard to watch. You may worry about your loved one’s comfort or hygiene but feel unsure how to help.

Understanding the cause is the first step. The good news is that incontinence can be managed. Your loved one’s dignity can be protected with the right support.

Management and Treatment for Incontinence in the Elderly

Incontinence can be tough to handle. However, there are simple and effective ways to manage it.

The first step is talking to a doctor. They can help find the cause and suggest the right treatment. In some cases, small changes in daily habits can make a big difference. For example, keeping a bathroom schedule, limiting caffeine, and drinking fluids at the right times can help reduce accidents.

Additionally, pelvic floor exercises (also called Kegel exercises) can strengthen muscles and improve control. These are easy to learn and can be done at home. For some people, medications may help if overactive bladder is involved.

Good hygiene is also very important. Gentle cleaning after accidents, using protective products like briefs or pads, and keeping the skin dry can prevent rashes and infections. Look for pH-balanced wipes and barrier creams for extra skin protection.

In more complex cases, such as with dementia or limited mobility, families may need extra help. That’s when professional in-home support can make a big difference.

The Role of In-Home Incontinence Care

Families juggling work, caregiving, and other responsibilities find it more challenging to manage incontinence at home. Fortunately, personal care services, such as those BrightStar Care provides, offers reliable support that keeps your loved one safe, clean, and comfortable.

Let’s see how in-home caregivers can help:

• Toileting support: Assist with getting to the bathroom, cleaning up after accidents, and changing clothes or protective products.
• Routine building: Set up regular bathroom schedules to reduce accidents and anxiety.
• Skin care: Use gentle cleaning methods and barrier creams to prevent rashes and infections.
• Mobility help: Support safe movement for seniors with limited strength or balance.
• Emotional support: Provide patient, respectful care that protects your loved one’s dignity.
• Peace of mind: Allow families to rest, knowing their loved one is cared for with compassion.

Preserving Dignity and Reducing Embarrassment

Incontinence can feel personal and even shameful for older adults. They may feel embarrassed, frustrated, or helpless, especially if they need help using the bathroom or cleaning up after accidents.

That’s why dignity matters just as much as physical care. Trained caregivers know how to help without making your loved one feel judged or uncomfortable. They speak gently, respect privacy, and create routines that feel normal and comforting. Over time, this builds trust and helps reduce stress for both seniors and their families.

When incontinence care is handled with kindness, it changes everything. Your loved one can feel more in control, more confident, and more willing to stay active in daily life.

If you’re caring for someone in the Cleveland area, in-home support can give your loved one the respect they deserve. You will also feel confident that they’re in good hands.

Signs Your Loved One Needs Incontinence Support

It’s not always easy to know when your loved one needs more help with incontinence. Some seniors may try to hide the issue out of embarrassment. But there are signs to watch for.

You may want to consider in-home care if you notice:

• Frequent accidents or sudden urgency to use the bathroom
• Wet clothes, bedding, or furniture
• Unpleasant smells in the home
• Skin irritation, rashes, or recurring infections
• Avoidance of social outings or increased isolation
• Changes in mood, such as frustration or embarrassment
• Difficulty getting to the bathroom in time due to limited mobility

How to Get Incontinence Supplies From Ohio Medicaid

If your loved one has Medicaid in Ohio, incontinence supplies may be covered. This includes products like adult briefs, underpads, wipes, and gloves that are often needed for daily care.

To qualify, a doctor must confirm that your loved one has a medical need for these supplies. Once approved, supplies can be delivered monthly through a Medicaid-approved provider.

This coverage can help families save money and reduce stress, especially when care needs grow over time.
To learn more or apply, visit the Ohio Department of Medicaid or talk to your loved one’s doctor or home care provider.

Final Thoughts

Caring for a loved one with incontinence doesn’t have to be a daily struggle. With the right support, your loved one can stay clean, comfortable, and confident at home.

At BrightStar Care of Cuyahoga West, our trained caregivers provide respectful, in-home help that protects your loved one’s dignity and gives your family peace of mind.

If you’re in the Cleveland area and need trusted support, we’re here for you. Visit our contact page or call us on (440) 613-1500.